Wendell Pierce

Wendell Pierce is a distinguished actor known for his versatility across film, television, and theater. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, Pierce trained at the prestigious Juilliard School, setting the stage for his prolific career, largely as a character actor.

Pierce first gained widespread recognition for his compelling performance in HBO’s critically acclaimed series "The Wire," where he played Detective Bunk Moreland. His other notable television roles include the trombonist Antoine Batiste in "Treme," James Greer in "Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan," the attorney Robert Zane in "Suits," and Clarence Thomas in "Confirmation."

He earned Independent Spirit Awards nominations for his film roles in "Four" and "Burning Cane," on which he also served as a producer. Other notable film performances include "Malcolm X," "Waiting to Exhale," "Ray," "Selma," The Gift (2015), and "Clemency."

On Broadway, Pierce has showcased his talent in productions such as "The Piano Lesson," "Clybourne Park," and his Tony Award- and Olivier-nominated portrayal of Willy Loman in "Death of a Salesman." His off-Broadway credits include "Broke-ology" and "Waiting for Godot."

Pierce is a committed advocate for arts and community development. He co-founded Black Theatre United, an organization dedicated to promoting diversity in the arts, and serves as a narrator for projects like PBS's "Becoming Frederick Douglass." Beyond his artistic contributions, he has been recognized as a 1981 Presidential Scholar in the Arts, underscoring his lifelong dedication to excellence in his craft.